PITTSBURGH (KDKA/AP)– Hall of fame running back John Henry Johnson, a former Pittsburgh Steeler, has died. He was 81.

Johnson spent five years with the Steelers from 1960 to 1965.

He was also a member of the “Million Dollar Backfield” in his three-seasons with the San Francisco 49ers from 1954-1956.

A four-time Pro Bowler (1954, 1962-64), Johnson’s 6,803 career yards rushing trailed only Jim Brown, Jim Taylor and former 49er Joe Perry upon his retirement in 1966.

Johnson was also a productive receiver, catching 186 passes for 1,478 yards. He scored 55 touchdowns during his career.

He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987 after a 14-season NFL career.

Steelers Chairman Emeritus Dan Rooney said Johnson deserves to be remembered and recognized in the National Football League.

“He was good. He was like The Bus in that he was a great short-yardage player,” said Rooney.

Johnson passed away in Tracy, Calif.

RELATED LINKS:
Pittsburgh Steelers
NFL.com: “Johnson, member of 49ers’ ‘Million Dollar Backfield,’ dies at 81″
More Sports News